WWF Scotland have said that the Scottish Government’s new Energy Strategy acts as a powerful start to Scotland’s new energy future.

“We’re delighted to see many of our ideas brought forward in this strategy, especially a new target to secure half of all Scotland’s energy needs from renewable sources by 2030. The new all energy target sends a strong message to business and industry, both here and globally, that Scotland plans to build on its amazing progress on renewable electricity in the heat and transport sectors.

“A transformation in how we heat our homes and offices, how we travel to work and school, and how we power our industries will generate many social and economic benefits. Research shows that generating half of our energy from renewables by 2030 is both necessary and achievable. We look forward to working with the Scottish Government to make sure that policies are in place to deliver on this target, which enjoys strong cross-party and public support.”

On proposals for Scotland’s new energy efficiency programme, Hanrahan said:

“The new information published today fails to put enough meat on the bones of the Scottish Government’s commitment to transform the energy efficiency of existing homes. With 1.5million cold homes in Scotland, these proposals are too slow and underfunded, especially when greater investment could create up to 9,000 jobs across the country. Ministers must set an objective for a new programme supporting all homes to reach at least an Energy Performance Certificate ‘C’ band by 2025.”

On a consultation on extensive new proposals to expand district heating, Hanrahan said:

“Heat networks will need to expand in Scotland’s major cities to help tackle fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions from heating our buildings and industry. The Scottish Government’s welcome proposals for local heat plans and district heating regulation should help bring affordable, low carbon heat to many more people in cities and towns across the country.”